Become a Commercial Drone Pilot

Become an FAA Licensed Pilot to
Fly Drones or UAS Commercially

Before the new Federal Aviation Regulation, Part 107, you had to become an FAA licensed pilot to commercially fly “Small unmaned aircraft systems (UAS)”. Now with a simple FAA monitored knowledge test, you can operate commercially to fly UAS commercially. It is best to read this rule specifically because it has many requirements that you need to know. Additionally, the FAA has requirements on the UAS itself, that are changing and updating as this for of aviation evolves. Click here to look at the current Part 107 regulations.

Note that if you are already a licensed Sport, Private or higher, it is easier to get a UAS license/add-on. Go down on this page to “Existing Part 61 Certificate Holders” for that procedure.

When prompted, enter the 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID (NOTE: it may take up to 48 hours from the test date for the knowledge test to appear in IACRA)

Sign the application electronically and submit for processing.

Step 4: A confirmation email will be sent when an applicant has completed the TSA security background check. This email will provide instructions for printing a copy of the temporary remote pilot certificate from IACRA.

Step 5: A permanent remote pilot certificate will be sent via mail once all other FAA-internal processing is complete.

Step 5: Make an appointment with one of the following entities to validate your identity. Bring your completed Form 8710-13, proof of your current flight review, photo ID, and your online course completion certificate.

Renewing Your Certificate

It’s important for all pilots, including Certified Remote Pilots, to stay current and keep their knowledge up to date. That’s why the FAA requires you to renew your Remote Pilot Certificate every 2 years. Learn how to renew your certificate.

You must take a recurrent knowledge test at a Knowledge Testing Center within 24 calendar months of passing the intial knowledge test.

After passing the recurrent knowledge test, you must be able to show a copy of your recurrent knowledge test report if asked.